Our Padmapani Tibetan Thangka is a delightful depiction of the most venerable bodhisattva. Tibetan Buddhists believe that Padmapani has taken on a unique embodiment on the Tibetan Plateau. Indeed, the venerable bodhisattva of compassion has 4 arms to symbolize immeasurable compassion, loving kindness, equanimity and appreciative joy.
The arms of Padmapani are used to project symbolic meaning. As a result, Padmapani holds the stem of the blue lotus between the thumb and index finger of his upper left hand. Therefore, devotees can reflect on the universal Buddhist symbol of enlightenment. Additionally, Padmapani is holding the crystal mala beads in his upper right hand. This is because he is constantly reciting his mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”. The mantra translates as “Hail to the jewel of the lotus”. With proper faith, recitations of the Padmapani mantra will give many blessings.
In the top right corner is Green Tara, in the top left is White Tara with Amitabha Buddha in the middle. Additionally, in the bottom left is Manjushri and in the bottom right is Vajrapani. Indeed, Padmapani has always had a strong affiliation with these Buddhist deities.
Last but not least, our Padmapani Tibetan thangka depicts the cintamani jewel pressed between his hands in front of his heart. Devotees believe that the cintamani jewel will grant a noble practitioner whatever they wish for. Click here to learn more about Padmapani.
